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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Coplen sits down with Samara Stone, CEO of Perfected Practice and owner of the Stone Foundation. Samara shares her journey from obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology at Hampton University to founding her group practice and coaching business. She delves into the evolution of her career from a solo practitioner to a successful business leader in the mental health field. This conversation offers a wealth of insights on how to build a thriving therapy practice, develop a niche, and embrace innovative opportunities beyond traditional therapy sessions. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on navigating the mental health industry, especially in a post-COVID world.

By exploring Samara's approach to private practice, this episode uncovers key strategies for therapists looking to expand their business models. Whether you're a new therapist or an experienced practitioner, you'll find inspiration and actionable advice to enhance your career. Tune in to learn how to master the business side of mental health, from securing government contracts to developing online courses and creating a sustainable work-life balance.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners will learn about the critical steps in starting and growing a private practice, as Samara Stone shares her experience and expertise. Discover how to identify your niche and develop a unique brand that resonates with clients and stands out in the competitive mental health industry. Samara also highlights the importance of self-care and personal growth for therapists, emphasizing the need to protect one's confidence and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

The episode also covers practical advice on leveraging skills beyond one-on-one therapy sessions, including opportunities in corporate consulting, keynote speaking, and online courses. Learn how to use technology, like AI and digital marketing tools, to enhance your practice and reach a broader audience. Samara's guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of mental health services will help you stay ahead of trends and optimize your professional journey.

About Our Guest

Samara Stone is a dynamic entrepreneur and leader in the mental health field. As the CEO of Perfected Practice and the owner of the Stone Foundation, Samara has dedicated her career to helping therapists build successful practices and expand their business horizons. With a background in psychology from Hampton University and a master's in social work from the University of Maryland, she has over two decades of experience in mental health and business development. Her expertise spans private practice growth, strategic business planning, and professional coaching.

Samara is passionate about empowering mental health professionals to find their unique paths and leverage their skills beyond traditional therapy models. She offers specialized coaching programs like the "90 Day Sprint," designed to help therapists scale their businesses effectively. Through Perfected Practice, she provides tailored strategies and insights to support therapists in achieving their professional goals while maintaining a fulfilling work-life balance.

Topics Covered

This episode covers a range of topics essential for mental health professionals looking to grow their practice. Key discussion points include the importance of niche development and branding for therapists, strategies for transitioning from solo practice to group practice, and the benefits of exploring non-traditional therapy services like intensives, retreats, and online courses. Samara also discusses the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health industry and how therapists can adapt to the changing landscape.

Additional topics include leveraging technology, such as AI and digital tools, for marketing and business development, and the importance of maintaining self-care and professional growth. Listeners will also hear about the innovative ways Samara has used her expertise to create unique opportunities for herself and her clients, including her coaching program and her initiative, Be Full Grown, for Black women navigating midlife transitions.

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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Coplen welcomes Priscilla Rodriguez, a licensed marriage and family therapist and the owner of Modern Wellness Counseling based in Texas. Priscilla shares her journey from starting as an associate in an agency job to building a thriving private practice. She discusses the motivation behind establishing her own counseling center, emphasizing the importance of a balanced lifestyle and the desire for a more flexible schedule. The episode delves into the challenges and rewards of managing a group practice, focusing on providing specialized care for clients, especially couples facing infidelity, communication issues, and other relational conflicts. Priscilla also touches on the value of emotionally focused therapy (EFT) in her practice.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners will gain insights into the intricacies of running a private practice in the counseling field. Priscilla Rodriguez offers valuable lessons on transitioning from agency work to private practice, highlighting the importance of niche specialization and client-centered care. The episode explores the benefits of emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and its application in couples counseling. Additionally, Priscilla shares strategies for managing a group practice, including hiring the right clinicians and maintaining a high standard of care. Learn how to balance personal and professional growth, set clear boundaries with clients, and utilize data-driven approaches to enhance the effectiveness of therapeutic practices and business management.

About Our Guest

Priscilla Rodriguez is a seasoned licensed marriage and family therapist based in Texas and the founder of Modern Wellness Counseling. With a passion for helping couples navigate relational challenges, she specializes in emotionally focused therapy (EFT), which focuses on attachment and bonding in adult relationships. Priscilla's journey began in 2016 when she started her practice to gain more control over her schedule and focus on her passion for relationships. By 2021, she expanded her solo practice into a group practice, allowing her to reach a wider range of clients and provide specialized care for couples at various stages of their relationships. Priscilla's innovative approach and dedication to client-centered care have made her a sought-after therapist in Texas.

Topics Covered

This episode covers a range of topics essential for aspiring therapists and seasoned professionals alike. Priscilla Rodriguez discusses her transition from agency work to establishing her own private practice and the motivations behind this career shift. The conversation explores the challenges and strategies involved in managing a group practice, including the importance of niche specialization and the benefits of offering focused care for clients. Priscilla elaborates on the application of emotionally focused therapy (EFT) in her practice, particularly for couples dealing with infidelity, betrayal, and communication issues. The episode also touches on the advantages of offering online therapy services and educational courses to reach a broader audience, including clients outside of Texas

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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Coplen sits down with Marquita Maxwell, a licensed counselor and the owner of Millennial Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting. The discussion delves into the evolution of Marquita's approach to holistic counseling, emphasizing the significance of somatic therapy. As the pandemic reshaped her practice, Marquita integrated somatic-based therapy to address the disconnection between mind and body that many clients experience. This episode explores the power of connecting the brain and body in therapeutic practices, highlighting the benefits of holistic approaches in mental health counseling. Marquita also shares insights into her work with millennials and her contributions to the field of tele-mental health and AI.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the benefits of incorporating somatic therapy into counseling practices. Marquita explains how understanding the connection between mind and body can enhance therapeutic outcomes, especially in managing anxiety and stress. She also discusses the importance of building a solid foundation in relationships through premarital and marital counseling, offering practical advice on how to navigate relationship challenges. Additionally, Marquita shares her experiences with tele-mental health and AI, providing tips on how these technologies can improve accessibility and efficiency in mental health services. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for both aspiring counselors and those looking to enhance their existing practices.

About Our Guest

Marquita Maxwell is a licensed counselor with over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. She is the founder and owner of Millennial Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting, where she specializes in holistic counseling, somatic therapy, and relationship counseling. Marquita's journey into holistic practices was catalyzed by the pandemic, leading her to adopt somatic-based approaches to address the deep-seated connections between mind and body. In addition to her private practice, Marquita is a certified brainspotting practitioner and an adjunct professor at Naropa University, where she teaches courses focused on transpersonal counseling and mindfulness. Her work extends beyond counseling to include consulting and public speaking, where she advocates for the integration of AI and tele-mental health in modern therapy.

Topics Covered

This episode covers a wide range of topics central to modern counseling practices. Marquita discusses her transition from traditional talk therapy to holistic approaches, particularly the role of somatic therapy in treating anxiety and stress. The conversation also explores the importance of premarital and marital counseling in building strong, resilient relationships. Marquita provides an overview of her work with millennials, addressing the unique challenges they face in today's fast-paced world. Additionally, the episode delves into the growing influence of tele-mental health and AI in the field of counseling, offering insights on how these tools can enhance both client accessibility and therapist efficiency. Whether you're a practicing counselor or someone interested in mental health, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of therapy

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In this episode of "Mastering Counseling," host Becky Coplen sits down with Lianna Tsangarides, the founder of Mindful Healing, to explore the transformative power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in treating teenagers. Lianna shares her journey from working in intensive outpatient and residential settings to establishing her own practice focused on long-term healing for teens struggling with self-harm, suicidal ideation, and intense emotions. This conversation delves into the unique challenges teenagers face in today's digital age and how Mindful Healing's comprehensive DBT program helps them build resilience, emotional regulation, and coping skills that lead to lasting change.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the practical application of DBT in a therapeutic setting, particularly for teenagers grappling with high-risk behaviors. Lianna explains how a structured, goal-oriented approach, combined with mindfulness practices, can effectively reduce self-harm, manage anger outbursts, and help teens gain control over their emotions. You'll also learn about the importance of parent involvement in therapy, the role of group sessions in reinforcing DBT skills, and the benefits of tracking progress through data. This episode provides a deep understanding of how to create a supportive environment that fosters long-term healing for adolescents.

About Our Guest

Lianna Tsangarides is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of Mindful Healing, a therapy practice dedicated to helping teenagers through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). With a background in intensive outpatient programs and residential care, Lianna was inspired to create a therapeutic space where teens could engage in long-term healing rather than cycling through crisis care. At Mindful Healing, she leads a team that offers both individual and group therapy sessions, specializing in DBT for adolescents dealing with self-harm, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation. Lianna's approach emphasizes mindfulness, emotional resilience, and comprehensive care, making her practice a beacon of hope for struggling teens and their families.

Topics Covered

This episode covers a wide range of topics related to DBT and adolescent mental health. Lianna discusses the foundational principles of DBT, including mindfulness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance, and how these skills are taught and reinforced in both individual and group therapy settings. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges that today's teenagers face, such as social media anxiety and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Lianna provides insight into the operational side of running a therapy practice, from choosing a name that reflects the practice's mission to managing the business aspects of a growing team. The episode wraps up with a look at the future of Mindful Healing, including the expansion of parent programs and new group offerings.

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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Coplen dives into an insightful conversation with Candice Lawhorn, a mental health professional and the founder of Mental Health Mingle, a platform dedicated to connecting mental health professionals. The discussion covers the origins and growth of Mental Health Mingle, an innovative platform created to foster connection, support, and resources for mental health professionals, especially during the isolating times of COVID-19. Candice shares her journey from conceptualizing the platform to expanding its offerings, including job placement, continuing education, and practical resources for therapists.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges and solutions in maintaining professional connections and resources in the mental health field. Candice discusses the importance of creating a supportive community for therapists and counselors, highlighting how Mental Health Mingle provides a safe, professional space for collaboration and growth. You'll also learn about the various tools and resources available on the platform, such as templates, continuing education opportunities, and job listings tailored to mental health professionals. Additionally, Candice offers practical advice for those entering the field, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right career track and understanding the business side of counseling.

About Our Guest

Candice Lawhorn is a seasoned mental health professional with a degree in marriage and family counseling. Her passion for helping others led her to create Mental Health Mingle, a platform designed to connect mental health professionals, provide resources, and foster a sense of community. Candice's journey into the field was inspired by her experience with the foster care system and her desire to support families before they reach a crisis point. In addition to running Mental Health Mingle, Candice continues to work as a therapist, offering telehealth services through various group practices in Alabama.

Topics Covered

The episode covers a wide range of topics, including the origins and development of Mental Health Mingle, the importance of community and support among mental health professionals, and the challenges of marketing and growing a new platform. Candice also discusses the future of Mental Health Mingle, including plans to expand job placement services and incorporate more specialized resources for therapists. The conversation touches on the different career paths within mental health, the importance of choosing the right educational track, and the need for practical business knowledge in the counseling field. Additionally, Candice shares her personal experiences and insights into balancing professional and personal life as a busy mental health professional

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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Coplen engages in an insightful conversation with Carla Titus, the CEO of Wealth and Worth Within. Carla, with her extensive financial expertise and over 15 years of experience in financial planning and online business, shares her journey from corporate finance to helping small businesses, especially in the counseling and mental health sector. Discover how Carla's company provides crucial financial guidance and support, helping businesses achieve long-term viability and success. Tune in to learn about the importance of having a strong financial foundation and the role of a fractional CFO in ensuring the financial health of small practices. Lessons You'll Learn Listeners will gain valuable insights into the world of finance as Carla Titus explains the significance of financial planning for small businesses, particularly in the counseling and mental health sectors. Carla emphasizes the importance of having a strong bookkeeping system and understanding profit and loss statements. She shares her strategies for helping businesses set clear financial goals and develop key performance indicators to track their progress. Additionally, Carla discusses the role of a fractional CFO in providing ongoing financial support, managing risks, and ensuring businesses remain profitable and sustainable. Learn how integrating financial expertise can transform your practice and enhance your ability to serve clients effectively. About Our Guest Carla Titus is the CEO of Wealth and Worth Within, a company dedicated to providing financial planning and fractional CFO services to small businesses. With a background in corporate finance, Carla brings over 15 years of experience to the table, offering expertise in financial planning, strategic decision-making, and business growth. Carla's passion for helping small businesses thrive led her to create Wealth and Worth Within, where she focuses on ensuring businesses have the financial foundation needed to succeed. Her approach combines financial acumen with a deep understanding of various industries, including counseling, law, e-commerce, and more. Carla's dedication to supporting small businesses extends beyond financial planning. She is a strong advocate for sustainability and ethical business practices, working closely with clients to ensure they can continue to serve their communities effectively. Carla's vision for Wealth and Worth Within is to provide accessible financial expertise to businesses of all sizes, helping them achieve long-term success and profitability. Her innovative approach and commitment to client success make her a sought-after expert in the field of financial planning for small businesses. Topics Covered This episode covers a range of topics essential for small business owners and entrepreneurs in the counseling and mental health sectors. Carla Titus delves into the importance of financial planning and the role of a fractional CFO in supporting business growth. She discusses the challenges small businesses face, such as managing clinical capacity and pricing strategies, and offers practical solutions to overcome these obstacles. Carla also highlights the significance of using financial metrics and key performance indicators to track progress and make informed decisions. Listeners will also learn about the various niches Wealth and Worth Within serves, including law firms, e-commerce businesses, and interior design firms. Carla explains how her team's industry-specific knowledge enhances their ability to provide tailored financial advice and support. Additionally, the episode touches on the use of technology and software in financial management, emphasizing the importance of automation and integration for efficiency. Gain insights into how Carla and her team help businesses navigate financial challenges, achieve their goals, and ensure long-term viability through strategic financial planning and support.

• Episode Topic: In this episode of Mastering Counseling, we discuss the intricacies of children and teens counseling with Diane Webb, co-founder of Grace Mental Health Counseling. Diane shares her holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing the importance of specialized care for young clients. The conversation delves into how trauma and anxiety can uniquely affect children and teenagers and how innovative techniques like EMDR and Brainspotting can provide effective treatment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of mental health support for the younger population.
• Lessons You'll Learn: Listeners will gain valuable insights into the field of children and teens counseling, particularly through the lens of Diane Webb's extensive experience. Diane explains how a traumatic car accident redirected her career path towards mental health, ultimately leading her to co-found Grace Mental Health Counseling. The episode highlights the importance of a supportive work environment for therapists, the benefits of Christian counseling, and the necessity of specialized mental health services for children and teens. You'll learn how to create a welcoming and effective therapeutic space and the significance of continuous professional development in the counseling field.
• About Our Guest: Diane Webb is the co-founder of Grace Mental Health Counseling, a practice known for its holistic and faith-based approach to mental health. With nearly two decades of experience in trauma therapy, Diane has developed a reputation for her expertise in EMDR and Brainspotting techniques. Her journey into the mental health field began after a life-changing car accident, which inspired her to make a positive impact in the world. Diane's dedication to her clients and her innovative approach to therapy have made her a respected figure in the mental health community. She continues to mentor and support other therapists, fostering a collaborative and nurturing work environment.
• Topics Covered: This episode covers a range of topics centered around children and teens counseling. Diane Webb discusses the foundation and growth of Grace Mental Health Counseling, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive workplace for therapists. The conversation explores effective therapeutic techniques such as EMDR and Brainspotting, particularly for trauma and anxiety in young clients. Diane also shares insights into the unique challenges faced by children and teens in mental health, the role of Christian counseling, and the future plans for expanding services to better cater to younger populations. Listeners will leave with a comprehensive understanding of the strategies and philosophies that drive successful children and teens counseling.

Checkout our website- https://mastersincounseling.org/

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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Coplen engages with Kat Love, a Founder of Empathysites & Empathycopybusiness and marketing coach specializing in helping therapists with their websites and marketing strategies. The discussion digs into the often-overlooked business side of mental health practice, highlighting the importance of having a professional and functional website. Kat shares her journey of becoming a niche web designer for therapists, inspired by her healing journey as a sexual abuse survivor. The conversation emphasizes the need for therapists to have a strong online presence to better reach and support their clients, especially in an increasingly digital world.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the critical aspects of creating and maintaining a therapist website. Kat Love shares practical advice on overcoming the daunting task of building a website, emphasizing the importance of having a niche and a clear vision. The episode covers the benefits of seeking professional help versus the DIY approach and offers strategies for therapists who may feel overwhelmed by the technical and content creation aspects of website development. Additionally, Kat highlights the significance of having a holistic approach to website design, which includes ongoing support and integration of various technical tools to streamline the therapist's practice.

About Our Guest

Kat Love is a business and marketing coach dedicated to assisting therapists in establishing a strong online presence through effective website design and marketing strategies. With a background in coding and a deep understanding of the therapy profession, Kat brings a unique blend of technical expertise and empathy to her work. As a sexual abuse survivor, she has a personal connection to the therapy field, which fuels her passion for helping therapists succeed. Kat founded Empathy Sites, a website design service tailored specifically for therapists, providing a comprehensive and supportive approach to website creation and maintenance.

Topics Covered The episode covers a wide range of topics related to website design and marketing for therapists. Kat Love discusses the importance of having a niche and the benefits of targeting a specific audience. She explains her four-phase guided process for creating therapist websites, which includes content creation, design, technical planning, and ongoing support. The conversation also touches on the challenges therapists face when trying to build their websites, the advantages of hiring professional help, and the role of design and images in conveying the therapist's vibe and attracting clients. Additionally, Kat shares her thoughts on integrating AI tools into the website creation process and the future of website design for therapists. Check out our website- https://mastersincounseling.org/

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In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Copelan sits down with accomplished entrepreneur Nicole Liloia CEO and Founder at Nicole Liloia International. Nicole has a rich background in social work and has successfully transitioned into the business realm, focusing on empowering women to develop diverse income streams. The conversation gets into Nicole's journey from being a social worker to building an international coaching business. Listeners will gain insights into how Nicole established her online presence and expanded her clientele across different countries, highlighting the blend of her social work skills with entrepreneurial strategies.

Lessons You'll Learn

Listeners of this episode will learn valuable lessons on balancing a career transition while leveraging foundational skills. Nicole shares her experiences of moving from a social worker to an entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adapting. She discusses the significance of creating multiple income streams and the impact of building a strong online presence early on. The episode offers practical advice on how to utilize one's existing skills in new domains and the benefits of thinking globally when building a business.

About Our Guest

Nicole Liloia is a dynamic entrepreneur with a background in social work. She has dedicated her career to helping women diversify their income streams and achieve financial independence. With her company, Nicole Liloia International, she has built a successful coaching practice that spans across several countries, including Austria and the Netherlands. Nicole's unique blend of social work principles and business acumen has enabled her to create impactful strategies for her clients. Her journey reflects resilience, innovation, and a commitment to empowering others through entrepreneurship.

Topics Covered

This episode covers a range of topics crucial for anyone looking to transition their career or expand their business internationally. Nicole discusses her initial steps in the coaching industry and how she attracted her first international client. She shares insights into building an online audience and the importance of rebranding to stay relevant. The conversation also touches on the burnout often experienced in social work and how Nicole used her skills to navigate and overcome these challenges. Other key topics include problem-solving, the importance of licensure in counseling, and leveraging social work skills in various life and business situations. Check out our website- https://mastersincounseling.org/

• Episode Topic: In this episode of Mastering Counseling, host Becky Copelan sits down with Khara Croswaite Brindle, a renowned clinician and financial therapist at Croswaite Counseling, PLLC. The discussion revolves around Khara's extensive experience in the mental health field, her journey from working in community mental health to establishing her private practice, and her focus on addressing therapist burnout. Khara shares insights from her multifaceted career, including her TEDx talks and authorship. This episode aims to provide listeners with valuable knowledge on managing a successful practice while maintaining personal well-being, especially in the demanding field of mental health.
• Lessons You'll Learn: Listeners of this episode will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of a career in mental health. Khara Croswaite Brindle discusses the importance of recognizing and addressing burnout among therapists, offering practical strategies to manage it effectively. She emphasizes the significance of self-care and professional boundaries in sustaining a long-term career. Additionally, Khara provides insights into transitioning from community mental health work to private practice, highlighting the skills and mindset required for such a shift. Her experiences with at-risk youth, families, and medical students offer valuable lessons on handling diverse client needs and complex cases.
• About Our Guest: Khara Croswaite Brindle is a distinguished clinician and the owner of Croswaite Counseling. She is also a financial therapist who has delivered impactful TEDx talks and authored several books available on Amazon. With a career rooted in community mental health, Khara has climbed the ranks from a clinician to a clinical supervisor, eventually establishing her private practice. Her professional journey is marked by a dedication to addressing therapist burnout and supporting mental health professionals in their careers. Khara's diverse experience includes working with at-risk youth, families, and medical students, making her a well-rounded expert in the mental health field.
• Topics Covered: This episode covers a wide range of topics essential for mental health professionals. Khara Croswaite Brindle shares her career progression, from her initial roles in community mental health to running her private practice. She discusses the high demands of working with abuse and neglect cases, which contributed to her own experiences with burnout. The conversation delves into the strategies Khara employs to manage burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, she talks about her work with different populations, including at-risk youth, families, and medical students, providing listeners with insights into handling varied and challenging cases in their practices. Check out our website- https://mastersincounseling.org/